Goat Lake Trail

Route Description for Goat Lake Trail

Goat Lake is a lovely blue-green lake surrounded by snowy mountains. The trail there offers rushing waterfalls, a babbling river, and majestic forest dotted with old-growth trees. The incline is flat or very gradual the entire way, making it an easy trip for the length. While Goat Lake is a great day hiking destination, it’s also popular with backpackers, who camp near the shores of the lake.

This trail is a common pick, so try to arrive early if you can to enjoy a bit less traffic and an easier time parking.

Goat Lake Trail begins at the far end of the parking lot. You’ll hike a short distance to a junction with Upper Elliot Trail and Lower Elliot Trail. You can take either one there and either one back, but most people take Upper Elliot there and Lower Elliot back for minimal elevation change.

To take Upper Elliot Trail, keep left. The trail doubles back on an old road and gently climbs the slope of the ridge beside you one wide switchback. There is an old, wide culvert in a stream you’ll need to cross, but if you don’t feel secure doing it, just turn around and take Lower Elliot instead.

Jagged peaks and two beautiful waterfalls dominate your view. Grab a handful of wild strawberries for strength. Note that the Chokwich Creek Trail heads left at 3.6 miles- continue straight on here.

The trails join, then it gets a little rocky and a bit steeper for the next section. There’s a stand of old cedars to admire, and then you’ll pass a big waterfall on the right as you switchback up. A signed junction before the lake points you in the direction of either the campsites or the day-use area. You’ll go right.

The day-use area by the lake has the best view, with the snow-clad peaks framing the still waters of the lake. Stay a while here, perhaps having a picnic or skipping some stones.

You can either take the same trail back or return on the other if you want a slightly different view on the return. If you took Upper Elliot up and want to take Lower Elliot back, stay left where the trail splits.

Trail Highlights

Goat Lake

Goat Lake shines with Cadet Peak towering over the headwaters. This little, peaceful lake is a low-elevation mountain lake, making it easy to reach. The original trail was used in the 1890s as a wagon route, but now it’s a pretty hiker-only access to the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in Goat Lake?

Yes, you can swim in Goat Lake.

Are dogs allowed at Goat Lake?

Yes, but they must be kept on leash.

Are there fish in Goat Lake?

Yes, the lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout and also has a natural population of Eastern Brook Trout.

Insider Hints for Goat Lake Trail

• Please don’t set up camp in the day-use areas. Stick to the camping sites!
• No campfires are allowed at the lake.
• You must be 61 m from the lake to camp.
• Remember to have your Northwest Forest Pass ready for this hike.